Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings is a heartwarming Southern classic that wraps you in a cozy hug of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory broth. This dish dances on your palate with a perfect balance of comfort and flavor, making it a go-to choice whenever you crave something deeply satisfying and homemade. Known for its rich aroma and delightful textures, Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings transforms simple ingredients into a beloved family favorite that’s as soulful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Southern Comfort: This recipe captures the true soul of Southern cooking with its rich flavors and soothing warmth.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Using straightforward, wholesome ingredients ensures every bite is packed with taste without any fuss.
Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s chilly winter nights or cozy family dinners, this dish fits perfectly in your meal rotation.
Crowd-Pleaser Every Time: It’s a universally loved dish that appeals to kids and adults alike, bringing smiles to any table.
Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy broth paired with soft dumplings offers an unmatched level of comfort food satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings plays a crucial role, combining classic staples to create that familiar, comforting taste and beautiful aroma. From tender chicken to fluffy dumplings, every addition boosts the texture, flavor, or color of the dish in a unique way.

Chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, they provide rich flavor and maintain moisture throughout cooking.
All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the broth and creating the dumplings’ light, fluffy texture.
Chicken broth: Forms the savory base that brings all the flavors together harmoniously.
Onions and celery: Classic aromatics that add depth and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
Milk or heavy cream: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the broth for that indulgent feel.
Baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise perfectly and become pillowy to the bite.
Butter: Enhances richness and adds a silky mouthfeel to the finished soup.
Salt and pepper: Balances and highlights the natural flavors of all ingredients.

Variations for Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings

Feel free to make Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings your own. Whether you want to swap ingredients because of dietary needs, or just like to add your personal touch, this recipe adapts beautifully to countless variations.

Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken broth and meat with vegetable broth and mushrooms for a meatless version that’s still hearty.
Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a gentle heat that complements the rich flavors.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the aroma and add layers of earthy flavor.
Gluten-Free Dumplings: Use gluten-free flour and baking powder for a dumpling option suitable for gluten sensitivities.
Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar near the end for a luscious, cheesy twist on this classic dish.

Why Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings Delight

How to Make Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by simmering chicken thighs in chicken broth until cooked through and tender, then remove and shred the meat, reserving the broth for the dumplings and soup base.

Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough

Mix all-purpose flour with baking powder, salt, and melted butter, then add milk to form a soft, pliable dough that’s ready to drop into the simmering broth.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a separate pan, gently cook diced onions and celery in butter until translucent and fragrant, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish’s foundation.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Aromatics

Return the shredded chicken to the reserved broth, add the sautéed vegetables, and bring to a gentle boil, ready for the dumplings.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of the dough carefully into the simmering broth and cover, allowing the dumplings to steam and cook until light, fluffy, and fully set.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Stir in milk or heavy cream for a creamy finish, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for a few more minutes to meld all flavors perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings

Use bone-in chicken thighs: They impart more flavor and keep the meat juicy during simmering.
Simmer, don’t boil: Keep the broth at a gentle simmer to prevent tough chicken and overcooked dumplings.
Drop dumplings carefully: Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to keep dumplings uniform and prevent sticking.
Cover while cooking dumplings: Trapping steam ensures dumplings cook evenly and become fluffy.
Don’t overmix dough: Mixing just until combined keeps dumplings tender instead of dense.

How to Serve Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dash of freshly ground black pepper adds a pop of color and a bright finish that complements the comforting creaminess.

Side Dishes

Serve with crusty bread or fresh green beans to add texture contrast, or a light salad to bring crispness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls for a homestyle feel or alongside cornbread muffins for a Southern-inspired spread that makes the meal extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors deepen and meld overnight.

Freezing

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent dumplings from becoming tough or broth from separating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and richer flavor, while breasts can dry out if overcooked.

How long does it take to cook the dumplings?

Typically, dumplings take about 15 minutes to cook through when simmered over low heat with the pot covered.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute milk or cream with unsweetened almond, coconut, or oat milk for a creamy yet dairy-free version.

What’s the best way to thicken the broth?

The flour in the dumpling dough helps, but if you want it thicker, whisk a bit of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir in during the last few minutes.

Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the chicken and broth on low for several hours, then add dumplings towards the end to avoid overcooking them.

Final Thoughts

Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for sharing with those you love. With its simple ingredients and cozy flavors, it invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and create memories around the table. Give this recipe a try and bring a slice of Southern comfort into your kitchen today.

Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings

Print Recipe

Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings is a classic Southern comfort dish combining tender, juicy chicken thighs with fluffy dumplings and a creamy, savory broth. This heartwarming recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners, offering simple ingredients transformed into a rich, flavorful meal that’s beloved by all ages.

Author: Sarah
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Southern American
Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free flour and baking powder substitution)

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Broth

1.5 to 2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs
6 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper, to taste

Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for variation)
1 tablespoon baking powder (or gluten-free baking powder for variation)
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1 to 1 1/4 cups milk or heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)

Aromatics & Finishing

1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced celery
2 tablespoons butter
Additional salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: fresh chopped parsley or freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Start by simmering bone-in chicken thighs in chicken broth over low heat until cooked through and tender, about 30-40 minutes. Remove the chicken, shred the meat, and reserve the broth for later use.
Make the Dumpling Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and melted butter. Gradually add milk or heavy cream, stirring until a soft, pliable dough forms that can be dropped by spoonfuls into the broth.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a separate pan, gently cook diced onions and celery in butter over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
Combine Broth and Aromatics: Return the shredded chicken to the reserved broth, add the sautéed onions and celery, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, preparing the base for dumplings.
Cook the Dumplings: Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam and cook over low heat until they are light, fluffy, and fully set, approximately 15 minutes.
Finish with Cream: Stir in milk or heavy cream to create a creamy broth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional few minutes to meld all flavors perfectly.

Notes

Use bone-in chicken thighs for richer flavor and juicier meat.
Simmer the broth gently to avoid tough chicken and overcooked dumplings.
Drop dumplings carefully with a spoon or ice cream scoop for uniform size and to prevent sticking.
Keep the pot covered while cooking dumplings to trap steam and ensure fluffy texture.
Mix dumpling dough just until combined to keep dumplings tender instead of dense.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
Calories: 400 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Chicken and Dumplings, Southern Comfort Food, Homemade Chicken Dumplings, Cracker Barrel Recipe, Cozy Chicken Soup